Development of novel Lewis acid catalysts for selective organic reactions in aqueous media

New types of Lewis acids as water-compatible catalysts have been developed. Various metal salts were found to work as Lewis acid catalysts in aqueous media, and catalytic asymmetric aldol reactions in such media have been attained. Furthermore, Lewis acid-surfactant combined catalysts, which can be used for reactions in water without using any organic cosolvents, have been also developed. These investigations will contribute to reducing the use of harmful organic solvents and to develop efficient catalytic systems which cannot be realized in conventional organic solvents.